Upscale Yet Effortless Mac N' Cheese

A creamy, cheesy dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a touch of elegance. It's simple to make but feels special enough for any dinner gathering or cozy night in.

Cooking Tips

Use sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor.
Stir the cheese sauce gently to keep it smooth and creamy.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Ingredients 0/9

1 small red onion, diced 1 (16 ounce) package small pasta shells salt and ground black pepper to taste 1 pinch garlic salt 1 tablespoon butter ¼ cup brown sugar 3 (11 ounce) cans condensed cream of Cheddar cheese soup ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 ⅓ cups shredded Cheddar cheese

What Makes This Dish So Tasty

This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy comfort and sophisticated flavor. It’s rich without being heavy and comes together quickly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil and add the diced onion. Once it’s boiling, toss in the pasta and cook until it’s just tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain everything and transfer it to a casserole dish. Season with a bit of salt, pepper, and garlic salt to taste.

Step 2

Stir in the butter and brown sugar until the butter has melted and everything is well combined. Mix in the Cheddar cheese soup along with the Havarti, Parmesan, and a third of the Cheddar cheese, stirring it all together. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese over the top to get a nice cheesy crust.

Step 3

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. When it’s done baking, switch your oven to broil and let it cook for another 4 minutes or so, just until the cheese on top turns golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in!

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people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

Best Foods To Serve With This

Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to add brightness and texture. A sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs or fresh herbs on top can add a nice finishing touch.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute small pasta shells with elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape that holds sauce well.

What can I use if I don’t have condensed cream of Cheddar cheese soup?

You can make a simple cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and shredded Cheddar as a substitute.

Is it necessary to add brown sugar to the dish?

The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the cheese, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

This recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat products.

What should I do if my cheese topping isn’t browning under the broiler?

Broil for a few more minutes, watching closely to avoid burning, or move the dish closer to the broiler element.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente (firm to the bite) and avoid overcooking during baking.